The Ministry of Digital Development Simplifies Machine-Readable Power of Attorney Forms: What Businesses Need to Know

The Ministry of Digital Development, Communications and Mass Media of the Russian Federation has opened a public consultation on a draft amendment to the uniform requirements for machine-readable powers of attorney. The proposed changes aim to streamline the issuance procedure while introducing new mandatory elements.

A machine-readable power of attorney is a standardized document designed for automated processing by electronic document management systems. Its use is becoming increasingly widespread in business practice, making any regulatory updates to its completion especially relevant.

Key Proposed Changes

The draft departmental order outlines several important amendments to the current procedure:

• Simplified Representative Information. One of the most significant changes is the removal of the obligation to include detailed identity document data of the representative (type, series, number, issuance date), as well as the name and code of the issuing authority. This information will become optional supplementary data, reducing administrative burdens and minimizing errors during document preparation.
• Mandatory Validity Period. Under the current requirements, the validity period of the power of attorney is indicated only when applicable. The new version mandates that this period must always be specified. This will enhance legal clarity and eliminate cases with undefined validity terms.
• New Requirements for the Principal’s Data. For Russian legal entities, a new mandatory condition requires the inclusion of the personal data (full name and SNILS) of the head of a separate subdivision if the power of attorney is issued by them. This was not explicitly required before. The clarification aims to ensure unequivocal identification of the individual signing the power of attorney on behalf of the company.

The public discussion of the draft runs until September 23, after which the document may be approved in its current form or with amendments.

What Does This Mean for Business?

The planned changes have a dual impact: while simplifying the completion process, they also introduce new data fields. Companies should prepare to update their internal templates and procedures for generating machine-readable powers of attorney.

It is important to monitor the final approved version to promptly adjust corporate electronic document management systems and avoid errors that could render powers of attorney invalid.

This article is based on publicly available information and does not constitute legal advice. For guidance tailored to your specific situation, please consult legal experts.